Pounta: Paros & Antiparos Cruise, Swimming & Seafood Lunch

Exploring the Paros & Antiparos Cruise: A Detailed Look

If you’re planning a trip to Greece’s Cyclades, a boat tour around Paros and Antiparos often tops the list. This particular experience, offered by Paros Boat Trips M.C.P.Y, promises a full day of swimming in crystal-clear waters, exploring archaeological sites, and savoring a seafood feast—all aboard a traditional wooden kaiki boat. With a solid 4.7-star rating based on 145 reviews, it appears to be a popular choice for travelers eager to combine adventure, relaxation, and authentic Greek flavors.

What we love most about this cruise is how it balances multiple highlights: stunning scenic stops, engaging snorkeling opportunities, a tasty seafood lunch, and the chance to learn a little about the local history. Plus, many reviewers mention the friendly guides and crew, making the entire day feel like a personalized, well-organized outing. However, a couple of notes are worth considering—such as the limited accessibility for those with mobility issues or the need for more detailed commentary during stops.

This tour is perfect for those who want a full-day, immersive experience—ideal for adventurous couples, families, and anyone craving a break from sunbathing on a crowded beach. If you enjoy discovering new spots while having the comfort of good food, drinks, and friendly guides, this cruise likely won’t disappoint.

Key Points

• Authentic boat experience: Traditional kaiki boat with a cozy, genuine feel.
• Diverse stops: Multiple swimming, snorkeling, and exploration sites.
• Tasty local cuisine: Seafood lunch, seasonal fruits, and unlimited refreshments.
• Knowledgeable guides: Friendly, engaging personnel who enhance the journey.
• Great value: Combines several activities into one 6.5-hour trip.
• Limited accessibility: Not suitable for travelers with mobility challenges.

A Closer Look at What to Expect

From the moment you arrive at the Eurodivers Dive Center or Kaitas Restaurant (just 150 meters from Pounda Port), you’ll notice this tour is designed for a relaxed but engaging day. The small group size, often around 11 guests, keeps the experience intimate and allows the crew to cater to individual needs—something many reviewers appreciate. The boat itself is described as clean and well-maintained, with a traditional aesthetic that adds to the charm of the voyage.

The Itinerary and Its Highlights

The cruise begins in the late morning, giving you plenty of time to enjoy Greece’s beautiful light and mild temperatures. After boarding, the boat heads out across the bright blue waters toward the Padieronissia Blue Lagoon, a picturesque spot between small islands. Expect to spend about an hour here, with opportunities to swim and snorkel using the provided gear. Reviewers consistently mention how stunning the waters are, with some noting the abundance of fish, making it perfect for underwater photography or just marveling at the vibrant marine life.

Next, the boat moves to Panagia Faneromeni Bay, a well-loved stop for its rocky reef and clear waters. Guests enjoy snorkeling here again—a highlight for many—and the chance to cool off in the inviting sea. According to one reviewer, “The locations we went to were absolutely breathtaking,” which sums up the general sentiment about the beauty of these stops.

Moving along, the boat ventures toward Mastichari, a spot that combines snorkeling, cliff jumping, and exploring the cave of Epitaphios. The latter is a unique feature, inviting guests to explore under the cave during a designated stop, adding a sense of discovery and adventure. The reviews note how lively and fun the crew makes these stops, with one traveler mentioning, “The crew was so cool, and we made several stops to jump and swim in clear blue water surrounded by many fishes.”

Ancient Ruins and Cultural Stops

One of the tour’s special features is a visit to Despotiko, one of Greece’s lesser-known archaeological sites. This small, uninhabited islet offers a glimpse into Greece’s ancient past. Though the tour doesn’t specify detailed commentary about the ruins, travelers often find it intriguing to imagine the history as they explore the area by swim or from the boat.

The Seafood Lunch and Refreshments

Midway through the day, you’ll anchor in Psaralki, where the crew serves an authentic Greek seafood lunch. Reviewers describe the meal as “delicious,” with a mix of anchovies, calamari, octopus, and pasta—well-seasoned and served chilled. Many guests appreciate the generous drinks options, including local white wine, beer, soft drinks, and unlimited refreshments throughout the cruise.

A highlight for some is the seasonal fruit served as dessert, offering a refreshing end to the meal. One reviewer sums it up as “the best food we’ve had in Greece,” emphasizing how well the lunch complements the day’s activities.

The Return and Overall Atmosphere

As the cruise winds down, you’ll sit comfortably in the shade, sipping wine or beer, and reflect on the day’s adventures. The atmosphere is often described as relaxed and convivial, with the crew maintaining a friendly and attentive vibe. The overall flow ensures there’s plenty of time for swimming, lounging, and taking photos—many guests mention how they appreciated the non-rushed pace.

The Value of This Experience

Considering the length (6.5 hours), the variety of stops, the included food and drinks, and the personalized touch from the crew, this tour offers excellent value. The reviews underscore how well-organized the trip is, with many guests noting it as the highlight of their trip to Greece. The small group size and the quality of the stops make it feel exclusive without the hefty price tag of private charters.

Of course, it’s worth noting that transportation to and from the meeting point isn’t included, so plan accordingly if you’re staying outside Pounta Beach. Also, for those with mobility issues, the tour isn’t ideal due to the nature of the boat and swim stops.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This cruise is an ideal pick for adventurous travelers looking for a day packed with swimming, snorkeling, and scenic exploration. It’s particularly suited to couples, small groups, or families who enjoy being active and want to escape the busy beaches. Those who love authentic experiences—like tasting local wine and fresh seafood—will find this tour hits the mark.

If you’re after a relaxed yet engaging day on the water, with a good balance between sightseeing and leisure, this cruise offers a well-rounded Greek island adventure. It’s also perfect if you want to see some of the lesser-known archaeological sites without feeling like you’re on a rushed tour.

Final Thoughts

This Paros & Antiparos cruise delivers a genuinely enjoyable and well-rounded day on the water. The combination of stunning scenery, engaging snorkeling sites, friendly guides, and delicious Greek food makes it stand out as a compelling choice for travelers looking to combine adventure with relaxation.

The small group size and high-quality stops ensure a personal touch that many reviews praise. The included amenities, like unlimited drinks and snorkel gear, add to the overall value, while the curiosity-inducing stops like Despotiko and the Epitaphios cave give the day a bit of historical and natural intrigue.

If you’re seeking a day that mixes exploration, good food, and beautiful waters, this cruise will likely meet—and perhaps even exceed—your expectations.

FAQs

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to make your way to the Eurodivers Dive Center or Kaitas Restaurant, just 150 meters from Pounda Port.

How long does the tour last?
The cruise lasts approximately 6.5 hours. Check availability for specific starting times.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, and a towel for swimming and sunbathing.

Is there a guide onboard?
Yes, the tour features an English-speaking guide who helps with information and ensures you have a fun, safe experience.

Are drinks included?
Yes, there are unlimited refreshments, including local white wine, beer, soft drinks, and water, available throughout the day.

Can I participate in snorkeling and cliff jumping?
Absolutely. Snorkeling gear is provided, and there are stops suitable for cliff jumping from white rocks, as well as exploring caves.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s best for those without mobility impairments, as some stops involve swimming and climbing ladders. Always check with the provider if unsure.

What is the lunch like?
The seafood lunch includes a variety of fresh seafood, pasta, and salads, served chilled. Reviewers find it delicious and well-portioned.

Are there any allergens I should inform the crew about?
Yes, let the activity provider know if seafood contains allergens or if you have dietary restrictions.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In sum, this boat tour offers a rich mix of scenic beauty, adventure, and local flavors—making it a highly recommended choice for those wanting to experience the Cyclades in a relaxed yet engaging way. Perfect for explorers who love a splash of history, a lot of water, and some excellent Greek cuisine.